The most profound learning happens at the intersection of innovation, collaboration, and cultural exchange. This was brought to life from October 20th to October 25th, as we had the pleasure of hosting a group of 8 teachers and 12 students from Convitto Nazionale Benevento in Italy for a 6-day Erasmus+ combined mobility in Jyväskylä, Finland.
About the program
This mobility offered a dual focus, providing intensive professional development for educators alongside a school experience for students. Three teachers participated in an intensive 6-day training course on Social and Emotional Learning (SEL), organised by Experience Workshop. Simultaneously, three other teachers came for a job-shadowing mobility. They were joined by two accompanying teachers and the entire student group for a five-day school visit and participation in the daily life of the local Kortepohja school.
The school week began with a warm welcome by principal Päivi Liimatainen, who provided an insightful introduction to the school’s structure. Meanwhile, Italian students were taken on a tour by local Finnish students. The Italian students were then integrated into classes 5B and 5E, by class teachers Tuomas Alfthan and Gwyneth Koljonen.
Both teachers combined Finnish with English instructions in their classes and designed engaging group activities, which created a collaborative environment that overcame language barriers. The success of this integration was visible by the end of the week, as students eagerly exchanged contact information with each other.
Throughout the week, the Italian group gained firsthand insight into the features of the Finnish education system. One of the first differences they experienced was students removing their shoes at the door and spending every break outdoors in the playground, no matter what the weather is like. This allows children to reset fully before the next lesson. The group also appreciated the value placed on practical skills through handicraft classes, such as sewing and woodwork. Teachers found great value in the spacious teachers’ break room, a space for preparation, collaboration, and community among educators.
A highlight for everyone was a hands-on STEAM workshop led by Experience Workshop trainer Jukka Lehtoranta. The workshop brought all Italian and Finnish students and teachers together to collaboratively construct a Warka Tower inside the school. Presenting STEAM education via engineering, problem-solving, and teamwork.
Cultural activities
Beyond the classroom, the group participated in cultural activities that provided a full Finnish experience. The group explored Jyväskylä’s educational history on a city walk, enjoyed the natural landscape with a forest walk and lakeside grill, and visited the local nature museum. They also climbed the Harju water tower for a panoramic view of the city, experienced Finnish sauna, and visited the Aalto2 museum, learning about the region’s history and the legacy of architect Alvar Aalto.
Feedback from teachers
”All activities were well-organized and meaningful. The forest walk was particularly memorable for its combination of relaxation, teamwork, and cultural insight.”
”I appreciated the continuous support from the group.”
”I learned innovative teaching approaches based on trust, autonomy, and collaboration.”
”I gained a deeper understanding of how the Finnish education system promotes motivation and well-being.”
”I developed intercultural communication and teamwork skills. I strengthened my ability to reflect on and adapt educational practices to new contexts.”
”Learning environment observation. Improved English language skills. New Steam activities. Explored new territory.”
”I will introduce more student-centered and experiential learning activities.”
”I will promote interdisciplinary and outdoor projects inspired by the Finnish model.”
”More outdoor breaks for students. Integration of STEM games. Independent use of PCs or tablets.”
”Thank you for the warm welcome and the thoughtful organization. The experience was enriching both personally and professionally, offering a great opportunity for cultural exchange and reflection on our own educational practices.”
Feedback from students
”For me the most interesting thing was the music laboratory.”
”When we worked the wood.”
”Yes I made new friends and for me the crucial point is that I wanna see how they study.”
”I loved the break every hour and I loved also the music laboratory and the carpentry.”
”1. I learned that we are all the same even if we speak different languages. 2. I improved my English language skills.”
”The most important thing was that I managed to make friends with a student because this made me understand that there are no borders between other countries if you are open to new acquaintances.”
Photo credits: Nora Somlyody, Tereza Pruknerová and teachers of Convitto Nazionale Benevento school
The job shadowing mobility was realized in the frameworks of the Erasmus+ KA1 programme.
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